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Voluntary Preferential Runway Use Program

The Voluntary Preferential Runway Use Program at Tampa International Airport has continually evolved since the late 1950's as a voluntary cooperative agreement between the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority and the Tampa Federal Aviation Administration Air Traffic Control Tower. Below is the current 'Letter to Airmen' dated October 24, 2016, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This FAA document highlights components of the airports Voluntary Preferential Runway Use Program to pilots.

These recommendations are followed to the greatest extent possible and are subject to deviation for reasons including but not limited to wind, weather, runway conditions, air traffic activity, airspace constraints, emergencies and safety. These are also explained in the Letter to Airmen. The FAA air traffic controllers and pilots in command of their aircraft have final authority over aircraft operations and runway use.

While it is the goal of the Aviation Authority to be a good neighbor in making every effort to reduce aircraft over-flights over residential areas, the Federal Aviation Administration, who has sole authority in directing the movement of aircraft in the air and on the ground, has complete sovereignty over the operation of aircraft throughout the national airspace system. The Aviation Authority will continue to work with the airlines, corporate pilots and the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure that the airports Voluntary Preferential Runway Use Program is followed without compromise to safety.

Engine Run-up Restrictions

A Ground Run-up Enclosure, a three-sided steel structure lined with acoustical absorbent panels to deflect and muffle engine noise, is provided by the Aviation Authority to be used for engine test and maintenance. This facility is located on the eastern side of the airfield and is available for utilization 24 hours a day for all commercial turbojets (over 75,000 lbs.) and general aviation turbojet aircraft.